Critical Chaos

Critical Chaos is a role-playing game inspired by the SNES and original PlayStation eras. It is set in Statera, a world at war with an advancing empire, where monsters roam the roads and ancient powers are stirring. The story follows a middle-aged former martial artist who sets out to find a missing loved one and gradually gathers a group of companions, including family members, veterans, warriors and outcasts. The game has multiple endings, and the main story is listed at over 40 hours, followed by a postgame that leads to a true conclusion.

Combat is turn-based and tactical. Enemies are visible on the map and there are no random battles. Players manage turn order, counter attacks, use taunts and shield blocking, steal equipment and exploit enemy weaknesses. Characters are developed through class changes, subclassing, stat investment, Talents, Essences, Ikons and cross-class skill progression, which allows parties to be built in different ways. Choices made during the adventure accumulate and affect the outcome.

Exploration includes hidden locations, puzzle dungeons, platforming challenges, vehicle travel, and actions such as jumping, swimming and climbing, as well as content involving time travel. Optional activities include fishing, crafting and farming, along with hidden quests, optional bosses and superbosses. An Old-School mode lets players toggle tutorial pop-ups and Quest Log guidance. The game supports full controller use with customisable keyboard and controller settings, and a free demo is available. It was developed solo over more than seven years by Jeff of Red Canopy Games.